Title

Authors

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

12-2015

Abstract

This report provides an analysis of the current electrical and heating usage at Whiting Farm. The data gathered from the analysis is used to evaluate the efficacy of alternative energy sources to offset or completely replace Whiting Farm’s dependence on grid-drawn electricity and propane. We found that solar power is the most cost-effective source of alternative electricity production so we recommend the installation of a 15 kilowatt (kW) array from ReVision Energy. A wind turbine produces far less electricity, but serves as a powerful educational tool, so we recommend a Pika T701 1.5 kW turbine from Pika Energy. Geothermal heating systems are 300-400% more efficient than conventional propane-powered heating systems, Thus we recommend a mixture of air and ground source heat pumps be installed to heat the various buildings.